There is a Serious Threat to Your Bluetooth Circulating in Texas Right Now

(Tyler, Texas) - Technology, in particular our smart phones, is a double-edged sword. Some only want to send texts or make calls. Others, like myself, use their phone for just about anything, paying bills, watching YouTube, playing games.

Your phone is able to connect to so many things, too. Your car is one of them so you can play music or communicate hands free. You can also connect to a wireless speaker or your smart watch. That wireless connection could also be a way for a scammer to take over your phone.

It's Called Bluejacking, Bluesnarfing, Bluebugging

You use Bluetooth to connect your phone to your car, a set of ear buds or other devices. That same technology could also be used against you by a scammer. There are three ways  to do it, too, called Bluejacking, Bluesnarfing or Bluebugging.

• Bluejacking - This is where a scammer can send you an unsolicited message to a Bluetooth enabled device, like your phone.
• Bluesnarfing - This is where a scammer can steal information from your phone through Bluetooth. If you have an older phone or haven't updated the software, you could be very vulnerable to this.
• Bluebugging - This is where a scammer can gain complete access to your phone through Bluetooth.

Get our free mobile app

What Can We Do to Prevent Bluejacking, Bluesnarfing, Bluebugging?

To help prevent this kind of attack, turn Bluetooth off when you are not using it. A scammer will scan the area they're in for Bluetooth enabled devices. Then they'll send a file to your phone. DO NOT OPEN THAT FILE. Opening it is the first step for the scammer to gain access to your phone.

If you get a pairing request from an unknown source or device, decline that request. The scammer can use that connection to gain access to your phone.

Always keep your phone's software up to date. This allows your phone to be equipped with the latest security measures from the manufacturer to help prevent these kinds of attacks (KLTV).

Help Those Unfamiliar with Technology

My parents and technology do not mix. They can barely text. They each have a smart phone, though, just so they can make a call when not at home. I make sure when I stop by for a visit to check their devices to make sure everything is in order.

If you have family members in the same situation, do the same for them to protect them from an attack such as described above.

READ MORE: The Hottest Temperatures Recorded in Texas Occurred Twice at 120°

READ MORE: A Really Cool, But Scary Looking, Weather Phenomena Was Captured on Video in Texas